Jenny Lewis’ New Song Is a Poignant Reflection on Femininity

Somehow, it’s been six years since ex-Rilo Kiley frontwoman Jenny Lewis’ sparkling sophomore solo album, Acid Tongue. In the interim, she’s spent much of her time recording with her boyfriend and frequent producer Johnathan Rice under the moniker Jenny and Johnny. That duo certainly created its share of delightful California-infused gems, but it doesn’t compare to the work Lewis makes alone. And after hinting at a solo return earlier this year with a track for the Girls season 3 soundtrack, Lewis will release a new Ryan Adams-produced album, The Voyager, on July 29. Today, she shares the album’s first single, “Just One of the Guys,” a dreamy alt-country contemplation on what it means to be a woman in 2014.

Produced by Beck, his sonic influence is evident throughout—the track is particularly reminiscent of his latest album, Morning Phase. Acid Tongue dealt heavily with Lewis’ relationship with her parents, but “Just One of the Guys” feels even more self-reflective. “When I look at myself, all I can see/ I’m just another lady without a baby,” Lewis sings, explaining how, approaching 40, she feels more and more conscience of her gender and its effect on her life. If Lewis is this personal on the rest of The Voyager, it could be one of the more cathartic albums of the summer.

Dee Lockett is a writer for Vulture and a former Slate editorial assistant.